police assessment resource center monitor

The change in the monitor comes at a time of turmoil in reform efforts at the Seattle Police Department, which has come under scrutiny for using force against protesters who have taken to the streets in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. “What I know is we must do three things simultaneously: end police brutality, protect vulnerable people, and create the future of public safety,” which must include shifting priorities and funding to address social problems, rather than criminalizing them, he wrote in an article published on the website Medium in June. Oftelie has worked with other police departments, according to articles he’s authored, and has addressed calls by some to defund the Seattle Police Department by 50% by urging caution, calm heads and bridge building. Harrell’s office did not respond to an email seeking comment. Telephone messages left at Oftelie’s office at Harvard were not immediately returned. Oftelie is executive director of Leadership for a Networked World, which is based at the Technology and Entrepreneurship Center at Harvard.

Robart appointed Monisha Harrell, chair of Equal Rights Washington, as deputy monitor. District Judge James Robart announced the change in an order Tuesday.

Police assessment resource center monitor